Solaar is a Linux manager for many Logitech keyboards, mice, and other devices

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Solaar, an open-source utility for managing Logitech keyboards, mice, and wireless dongles on Linux, is praised for being lightweight, reliable, and available through common package sources like Ubuntu and Flathub. Commenters contrast it with Logitech’s official Options/G Hub software, criticizing the latter’s size, telemetry, and constant background presence while valuing features like per-application profiles and advanced button mapping. The thread also touches on dongle types (Unifying vs. Bolt), cross‑platform alternatives on macOS and Windows, and broader frustrations with proprietary peripheral software that’s bloated or privacy-invasive.

General reception & use cases

  • Many Linux users report using Solaar for years without issues, often via distro repos or Flatpak.
  • Common uses: pairing devices to Unifying/Bolt receivers, checking battery status, toggling Fn vs F1–F12 behavior, disabling tap-to-click, and adjusting MX-series features like scroll-wheel ratchet thresholds and gesture buttons.
  • Some only use it occasionally (e.g., after battery changes or device moves) but consider it essential “quality of life” tooling.
  • A few found the rule editor and gesture configuration confusing and gave up for simple remaps.

Comparison with Logitech’s official software

  • Logitech’s Windows/macOS tools are widely criticized as bloated (hundreds of MB, Electron-based), resource-hungry, intrusive (auto-running agents, upgrade checkers), and phoning home; the “offline” corporate build is said to still contact Logitech.
  • The addition of an “AI prompt builder” to the mouse driver is seen as emblematic bloat.
  • Some praise Logitech’s features: per-application profiles, automatic profile switching, cross-computer mouse/keyboard and clipboard sharing, and lightweight Onboard Memory Manager for programming onboard profiles.
  • Several users explicitly say they buy Logitech hardware because Solaar lets them avoid the official software on Linux.

Why a peripheral manager is needed

  • Base HID drivers handle typing and pointing, but not:
    • Programmable buttons, macros, DPI/polling changes.
    • Scroll-wheel clutch/detent control and reassignment of wheel vs extra middle button.
    • RGB lighting control and persistence.
    • Per-device behavior (MX keyboards’ media vs F-keys, special laptop-like shortcuts).
  • Some posters argue these are “niche” or goofy, others respond that such features are exactly why these premium devices sell.

Dongles, pairing, and connectivity

  • Discussion of three receiver families: single-device dongles, Unifying (up to 6 devices), and newer Bolt (BLE-based, more secure).
  • Bolt and Unifying are incompatible; users end up with multiple dongles for different Logitech lines (MX, Lightspeed, etc.).
  • Solaar is valued for managing receiver pairing fully on Linux; Logitech also provides a web-based pairing tool.
  • Connectivity tips: use Bolt instead of Bluetooth for reliability (though some report the opposite on Linux); avoid USB 3 ports or use short USB 2 extension cables to reduce 2.4 GHz interference.

Device quality and longevity

  • Mixed reports on Logitech durability: some mice and keyboards working flawlessly for 10–14+ years; others see switches double-clicking in 2–3 years, especially on some gaming and budget models.
  • Several users replace switches with higher-quality parts (TTC, Kailh, etc.), or choose brands that emphasize repairability.

Alternatives & broader ecosystem

  • Other Linux tools mentioned: Piper/libratbagd, logiops/logid, input-remapper.
  • On macOS, users recommend SteerMouse, BetterMouse, Mac Mouse Fix, and similar tools over Logitech’s own software.
  • Thread situates Solaar within a growing Linux hardware-management ecosystem (e.g., CoolerControl, LACT, Boatswain).

Implementation details & portability

  • Solaar is written in Python and is not a kernel driver; it talks to devices via HID++ over existing HID drivers.
  • Some express desire for first-class Windows/macOS ports; there are experimental macOS attempts but nothing polished yet.